Could the holidays get any busier?  Between your regular work schedule, family commitments and holiday gatherings – who has time to think about safe driving? You do!  OHS would like to remind everyone that safe driving should never take a holiday.

What you need to know

This year marks the 14^th anniversary of the Office of Highway Safety’s Safe Family Holiday campaign, which combines high visibility enforcement and awareness activities.  During this time OHS teams up with the corporate community, hospitals, state agencies and police across the state to promote traffic safety. Did you know…

• During  the Safe Family Holiday campaign last year, two people were killed in  alcohol-related crashes and another 27 people were injured.
• In 2011, on average, 30 people were arrested for DUI each week during  sobriety checkpoints and patrols between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day.
• Between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day last year, aggressive driving behaviors  caused 566 crashes.  These may include speeding, failure to yield,  and ignoring stop signs/red lights.
• Last year, more than half of the persons killed in crashes on Delaware roads were not wearing their seatbelt.

What you can do

It seems that everyone on the road is in a rush.  Maybe even you.  It is worth the time it takes to be calm and in control while you are behind the wheel this holiday. Remember to:

• Avoid Distractions. It is hard to be calm and in control when you are distracted. Pre-set the radio to your favorite channel.  Turn the smartphone off and put it away. Keep both hands on the wheel, eyes on the road, and your mind on the task of driving.
• Slow Down and Respect the Sign. Regardless of how others are driving, remain in control of your vehicle.  Obey the posted speed limit signs on the roadway and stop fully at stop signs. If you encounter an aggressive driver, simply remain calm and pull out of the way.
• Drive Sober. The best way to be in control while driving is to be alcohol-free. Always choose a designated driver before the party begins, or volunteer to be the sober driver for family and friends.
• Buckle Up. The best way to stay in control of your vehicle is to be properly restrained in the event of a crash. Every trip. Every time. Everyone in the vehicle.

Drive Safe.  Arrive Alive DE.

This message is being sent to you by the Office of Highway Safety, who asks you to drive safely at all times.  For more information on this and other traffic safety programs, go to www.ohs.delaware.gov.

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